Planning a wedding can definitely be stressful! During the process, it’s so important to make time for yourself. We hate the word “bridezilla,” but if you don’t focus on your own mental and physical health, it can definitely head in that direction. Whether your wedding is over a year away or two weeks away, make sure to find some time to relax and de-stress.
Here are a few of our favorite ways to unwind:
Plan Ahead and Delegate
“It always seems impossible until it's done.” - Nelson Mandela
It’s so easy to get overwhelmed about planning your big day, but remember, planning ahead, staying organized and asking for help are great ways to share the burden of planning such an extravagant event.
Work out
Not only is this a good way to tone up before your big day, but you end the workout feeling accomplished and strong. Frustrated that it’s past your RSVP date and there are still a bunch of guests who haven’t responded? Take out that frustration in a work out. Take a least 30 minutes a day to stop worrying about your invitations, your dress or your center pieces to take care of your body and your mind. We also suggest group classes or working out with a friend. Not only is this a great social activity but will also hold you accountable to go. If you’re in the Goshen area, we highly recommend LOL Health and Fitness and Spacious Heart Yoga.
Pamper yourself
Who doesn’t feel so much better after a fresh manicure, nice long massage or a glowing facial? If your budget doesn't allow for the extra expense of the professional services, you could do most of the pampering yourself. A nice long bubble bath is so luxurious (and free!), doing your own nails can be a nice distraction from planning and there are plenty of DIY face masks out there that can be made with items from your kitchen. Treating yourself doesn't have to be expensive, but it's so important!
Do something creative
We love a good crafternoon (afternoon of crafts)! You could DIY something that is totally unrelated to the wedding, such as a wreath for your new home together or filter through the thousands of crafts on Pinterest.
You could also invite a few friends over and knock out a wedding DIY that you’ve been meaning to cross off your list. We absolutely love these watercolor table numbers that Bread & Chocolate bride Megan had for her May wedding!
Photo by Bekah Taylor. Editing by Ruth Eileen Photography.
Focus on What's Important with Meditation
Take time for yourself. Meditation can mean different things for each person. Your form of meditation could be cleaning your home or going on a walk. Others like to sit in a quiet space and reflect or become mindless. There are some fantastic apps that you can download on your phone that can walk you through meditating.
The first one we recommend is Headspace. This app guides your meditation to help you with your focus, awareness, to relieve anxiety, and reduce stress. When you download you get ten, ten minute sessions and after those ten sessions are up you can subscribe ($12.99/month) and receive sessions in a number of topics such as stress relief, mental health, happiness, and appreciation.
The second app, a little cheaper in the long run, is Mindfulness Daily ($1.99 download). This app knows that you are busy (especially when planning your wedding), so it's created quick and effective ways to reduce your stress. The program includes 21 days of free mindfulness audio lessons and a “pause button” that helps you take a 15 second mindful pause whenever you are stressed or catch yourself on autopilot.
When all else fails, grab a glass of wine and always remember the reason for the day!
Photo by Marah Grant
Planning a wedding should be a fun and exciting part of your life! Make sure to take some time for yourself and relax.